How to Get a Georgia Driver's License

What You Need Before You Start

Georgia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Driver Services (DDS), and you will need to visit a DDS office in person to complete the process. You cannot finish a license process entirely online or by mail — the state requires you to pass a vision test and provide your signature in front of an examiner.

Before you go to a DDS office, gather these documents: proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form), proof of your Georgia residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and a document proving your identity and date of birth (a valid passport, birth certificate, or previous driver's license). If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document.

You will also need to bring the completed DDS Form 40 (process for a Driver's License or Learner's Permit). You can fill this out at home before you go, or you can complete it at the DDS office. Bring the original documents, not copies — DDS staff will examine them in person.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services office in person; there is no way to complete the entire process online or by mail.
Bring proof of your Social Security number, proof of Georgia residency dated within 60 days, and a document showing your identity and birth date.
You will take a vision test and a written knowledge test at the DDS office, and you must pass both to receive your license.
A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 and is valid for eight years; the fee is higher if you need a REAL ID-compliant license.
Processing takes about 10 business days after your visit, and DDS will mail your license to the address you provide.

Finding a DDS Office and Scheduling Your Visit

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 678-413-8400. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require you to schedule an appointment in advance through the DDS website.

If you schedule an appointment, you will choose your preferred date and time during the booking process. Walk-in hours vary by location — some offices have specific times for walk-ins, while others do not accept them at all. Calling ahead or checking the website for your specific office will save you a trip.

Bring all your documents with you. If you are missing any required document, the DDS office will not process your process that day, and you will have to return after you obtain it.

The Vision and Knowledge Tests

At the DDS office, you will first take a vision screening. The examiner will check whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — you must pass the vision test with the correction you actually use while driving.

After the vision test, you will take a written knowledge test on a computer. The test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 16 out of 20 questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though some may require you to return on another day.

Georgia does not require a separate road test (driving test) for a standard driver's license if you are 18 or older. If you are under 18, you will need to hold a learner's permit for at least 12 months and one day before you can take a road test and receive a full license.

Paying the Fee and What Happens Next

A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 and is valid for eight years. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights), the fee is $50 and the license is also valid for eight years. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the DDS office.

After you pay and pass both tests, the DDS office will take your photograph and your signature. You will receive a temporary paper license that day, valid for 30 days while DDS prints and mails your permanent license.

Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 10 business days. DDS will send it to the address you provided at the office. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact DDS to confirm your mailing address.

If You Already Have a License from Another State

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Georgia, you can exchange it for a Georgia license without retaking the knowledge test. You will still need to pass the vision test and provide all the same documents (proof of Social Security number, residency, and identity).

Bring your current out-of-state license with you. The DDS office will take it and issue you a Georgia license. The fee is the same as for a new license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to retake the knowledge test.

Renewing Your License Before It Expires

You can renew your Georgia driver's license up to one year before it expires. You can renew online through the DDS website if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have not had any address changes, and you do not need to update your photograph. Online renewal costs $32 for a standard license and takes about 10 business days.

If you need to update your photograph, change your address, or your license is suspended or revoked, you must renew in person at a DDS office. In-person renewal follows the same process as getting a new license: you will take a vision test, provide your documents, and pay the fee.

What to Do If You Lose Your License or It Gets Damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any DDS office. Bring your proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. The replacement fee is $20. You will receive a temporary paper license that day and your permanent replacement within 10 business days.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report it to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement from DDS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the knowledge test online or at home?

No. You must take the knowledge test at a Georgia DDS office on a computer provided by the office. You cannot take it remotely or by mail.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test the same day at most DDS offices, though some locations may ask you to return on another day. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You have up to three attempts within a 12-month period.

Do I need a REAL ID license, or is a standard license enough?

A standard Georgia driver's license is enough for driving. You need a REAL ID-compliant license only if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building. The REAL ID license costs $18 more and requires the same documents and tests.

How long does it take to get my license after my visit?

DDS mails your permanent license within 10 business days of your visit. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 30 days while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.

Can I change my name or address on my license without renewing it?

You can update your address online through the DDS website if your license is not suspended. To change your name, you must visit a DDS office in person and bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the name change.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.